tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79449389098844889782017-03-11T09:58:25.252-08:00miss ally jeanHair and makeup inspired by vintage glamour. Classic beauty fashion and fun. Allison Armasnoreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-6126254296627703052015-01-27T11:07:00.002-08:002015-01-27T11:29:22.951-08:00Red lipstick under eye tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Red Lipstick Under Your EYES?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RRFguEQKWvg/VMfbRil0GoI/AAAAAAAAAoM/3Vd055g7RBQ/s1600/10947355_896393907048310_473680092377513807_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RRFguEQKWvg/VMfbRil0GoI/AAAAAAAAAoM/3Vd055g7RBQ/s1600/10947355_896393907048310_473680092377513807_n.jpg" height="320" width="320"></a></div><br><br><br><br>Red lipstick underneath the eyes?! You be the judge! The photo above I was wearing wayyy too much makeup. I never wear it that thick but I had to keep adding more to cover all that red. I made a video with the same technique under one eye only.<br><br>Do you ladies think it's worth it? I'm on the fence. Leaning towards, "No."<br><br>Watch the tutorial here&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v28sOpNiiUk">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v28sOpNiiUk</a><br><br>Please comment below what you think- or if you are planning on using this!Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-43311370656910995692015-01-20T10:56:00.001-08:002015-01-20T11:01:26.886-08:00Denim Jacket and Diamond Studs If you know me in "real life" you know that I am not an outdoorsy type of person. In fact the last time I went camping I totally cried. I am a city girl through and through. So when Mike suggested we take a short hike to capture some outdoor photos- I was hesitant and suspicious. Turns out his idea of a short hike is FOUR hours, where as mine is about 30 minutes. Needless to say - I am still sore from the hike, which was three days ago...<br /><br />I have to admit, it really was worth it. The photos he took are fantastic and the scenery was beautiful. If you live in the area and have not checked out Grant Ranch- take your dog up there and go on a (little) hike.<br /><br />With our backpacks full of clothes and camera equipment we took off ready for adventure!<br /><br />#26. Denim Jacket<br /><br />A short reminder - this blog is all of my average girl tips and tricks for beauty. I also have an ongoing segment based off of Nina Garcia's book "The One Hundred" Which is an amazing short book on how to build an adult wardrobe, and how to dress well and not be a "fashion victim."<br /><br />Here are a few tips from Nina on buying and wearing the denim jacket "Be extreme. It should either be really dark or really worn out. Buy it a size too small or find a really fitted model. In general, don't wear it with another piece of blue denim."<br /><br />That last one, I believe, is the most important. There is nothing worse than a denim on denim outfit, ladies! Caution!<br /><br />I have two denim jackets. The lighter of the two I picked up at Crossroads Trading Co. for dirt cheap. Probably less than $20 dollars. The darker, I honestly cannot remember where it came from. It has been in my closet that long. Probably since middle school- I basically stopped growing in 7th grade so some of my clothes from then still fit me. I don't know if that is good or bad. Both jackets are originally from The Gap.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60qHi3UzGlY/VL6hOJEJ-AI/AAAAAAAAAm0/fQ0tUO0uE9g/s1600/DSC_0264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60qHi3UzGlY/VL6hOJEJ-AI/AAAAAAAAAm0/fQ0tUO0uE9g/s1600/DSC_0264.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFBf1E6LN9g/VL6hOlWMMDI/AAAAAAAAAm8/5xwnKABVd-o/s1600/DSC_0284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFBf1E6LN9g/VL6hOlWMMDI/AAAAAAAAAm8/5xwnKABVd-o/s1600/DSC_0284.jpg" height="400" width="267" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3goYM6W08-8/VL6hQShBtxI/AAAAAAAAAnM/cpt_jHVzm2Y/s1600/DSC_0294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3goYM6W08-8/VL6hQShBtxI/AAAAAAAAAnM/cpt_jHVzm2Y/s1600/DSC_0294.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e71vHEa0Q8s/VL6hRgQ3VxI/AAAAAAAAAnU/aTEq_zC9hXo/s1600/DSC_0317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e71vHEa0Q8s/VL6hRgQ3VxI/AAAAAAAAAnU/aTEq_zC9hXo/s1600/DSC_0317.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>&nbsp;The only thing jean jackets do not go with- are more jeans. Unless they are white. I like to wear mine with short skirts and dresses. I like mixing the masculine with the feminine. I wouldn't recommend spending more than $50 on a denim jacket. This isn't one of the items you need to buy brand new. In fact, they are kind of uncomfortable brand new. Better to buy one second hand that is already broken in. It will give you that "cool girl" vibe.<br /><br />#27. Diamond Studs<br /><br />"Best when large, real, and received as a gift. But large, fake, and self-purchased do the job, too (if you lose one, you won't want to kill yourself). They are a perfect everyday earring, as they add a bit of sparkle without being obnoxiously in-your-face about it. There are not many outfits that the diamond stud doesn't get along with" - Nina Garcia in "The One Hundred"<br /><br />Real or fake-diamond studs are my favorite go to earring. Let me rephrase that- fake diamond studs are my favorite go to earring. I do not have real diamond earrings, nor do I plan on ever buying or receiving them- as I am fairly definitely positively sure I'd lose one and cry forever.<br /><br />I have small dainty ones I purchased at Target or Nordstrom for less that $20. But the award for my favorite pair goes to Kate Spade. What girl doesn't love Kate Spade?! You tell me!!<br /><br />A link for ordering the Kate Spade pair I am wearing in my photos can be found&nbsp;<a href="http://www.katespade.com/kate-spade-small-square-studs/WBRU5734-P,en_US,pd.html?dwvar_WBRU5734-P_color=922&amp;cgid=katespade-root#q=stud%2520earrings&amp;start=20&amp;cgid=katespade-root" target="_blank">here</a>. I throw these babies on ALL. THE. TIME. They make a casual outfit look chic, they dress up an already dressy look. They are versatile, funky, and fun. Plus super affordable!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aw53ku4aeBY/VL6hORV8XJI/AAAAAAAAAm4/Fg8Uf0pZhZU/s1600/DSC_0270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aw53ku4aeBY/VL6hORV8XJI/AAAAAAAAAm4/Fg8Uf0pZhZU/s1600/DSC_0270.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;Squinting from the oh-so-bright sun.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eHZ0zMqBE5w/VL6hR6oPyAI/AAAAAAAAAnY/pWSJVQx5MvY/s1600/DSC_0349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eHZ0zMqBE5w/VL6hR6oPyAI/AAAAAAAAAnY/pWSJVQx5MvY/s1600/DSC_0349.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The cuff in this photo is also manufactured by the same company as Kate Spade and Tory Burch- I picked it up at Therapy in Downtown Campbell- the proceeds go to charity.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you girls are enjoying my posts! Please let me know if you would like videos or tutorials on specific things. Also keep your eyes peeled for the next free beauty giveaway! It should pop up some time next week.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Your blushing beauty,&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Miss Ally Jean&nbsp;</div><br />Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-20294235530394247232015-01-15T11:12:00.000-08:002015-01-15T11:12:13.778-08:00Full Lips and ELF Jasmine Review Ah! Full lips are so sexy! But getting lip injections can be expensive and painful (so I hear.) I was seriously considering getting them, and decided to look at some other non semi-permanent options first.<br /><br />I stumbled upon Full Lips on Amazon, which has amazing reviews! The order page can be found&nbsp;<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fullips-Lip-Plumping-Enhancer-Large/dp/B00GWBR4ZU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1421347104&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=full+lips" target="_blank">here</a>, and the order came in two days despite the fact it was not an Amazon Prime option.<br /><br />The packaging is adorable! I love that they made these little gadgets red- so cute and I like the little lips on the end too.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qk4m4kZAgmE/VLgMLNqC-OI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/_rE1h3qIj1I/s1600/IMG_8095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qk4m4kZAgmE/VLgMLNqC-OI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/_rE1h3qIj1I/s1600/IMG_8095.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br />I was slightly skeptical but after using the product twice I am a believer!<br /><br />Warning, if you use the product too much you can get bruising on your lips, which I totally did. So don't get too excited about it the first time you use it. Go SLOW! I made a video about the product and how to use it for a slightly larger lip, however when I used it last night I went all out and my lips were much bigger! The enhancement lasts about 4 hours and the Full Lips piece is small enough to carry in your bag, which is really nice because you can touch up in the bathroom if needed. (Perhaps in a stall though... you may look silly doing this in the mirror but whatever pride be damned!)<br /><br />The video tutorial can be found on my YouTube channel! Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkLCq50lAt0" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to watch! I'm still trying to figure out how to get the best sound- but it's getting there!<br /><br /><br />Also included is a short review and tutorial on the new Disney princess Jasmine products by ELF. I love these so much but I am a huge disney fan, if you couldn't tell by my Alice in Wonderland tattoo. My brother Isaac Armas at Bizarre Tattoo in Omaha NE did this awesome piece during the summer!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1m7PNdBop4E/VLgKXyw2c8I/AAAAAAAAAmA/nEk31eplBTo/s1600/10363567_479341835545685_5184904424448300543_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1m7PNdBop4E/VLgKXyw2c8I/AAAAAAAAAmA/nEk31eplBTo/s1600/10363567_479341835545685_5184904424448300543_n.jpg" height="400" width="323" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Fresh Ink!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Anyways! ELF has made several princess collections, and I have to say the lip and cheek pallet for Jasmine is by far my favorite. The lip gloss/glaze has medium pigmentation and looks great on. The blush isn't super pigmented but I have been using it on top of darker blushes almost as a highlighter or on its own for a super light day to day look. Great for work! And it is so beautiful!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KoL8IUJX46g/VLgMP7ePtoI/AAAAAAAAAmY/yHclXnVtSb8/s1600/IMG_8099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KoL8IUJX46g/VLgMP7ePtoI/AAAAAAAAAmY/yHclXnVtSb8/s1600/IMG_8099.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Princess Jasmine on the Packaging - so pretty!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LfAWFP36A1I/VLgMQHPtPCI/AAAAAAAAAmc/dT5cPkEGFUQ/s1600/IMG_8100%2B(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LfAWFP36A1I/VLgMQHPtPCI/AAAAAAAAAmc/dT5cPkEGFUQ/s1600/IMG_8100%2B(1).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can see I've used this quite a bit already!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Pick up both of these products if you can! The ELF princess collections can be found at Walmart and for only a few dollars more, on eBay. Have fun and stay beautiful!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Your blushing beauty,&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Miss Ally Jean&nbsp;</div>Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-82765051524419547522015-01-14T11:17:00.000-08:002015-01-14T11:20:13.252-08:00JeansI am so short. Little, tiny short thick legs. Shopping for pants is a nightmare. I always end up feeling really bad about myself when I'm trying on jeans, and then I have to stop and remember most jeans are made for tall, slender humans.<br /><br />Recently I discovered a store called Uniqlo, where all their jeans come in one length, and they hem them for free. FREE I tell you. It's a wondrous, beautiful thing. You pick your waist size based on inches, and then the person working in the fitting room marks your jeans exactly where you want them hemmed, and two hours later they are ready. AH! If you have not experienced this I highly recommend going. They have jeans in all colors and fades. It's fantastic.<br /><br />#42. Jeans<br /><br />I can't even begin to describe the frustration, the bicep workout, the pulling on the belt loops or breath holding that has occurred while trying on jeans in the dressing room. I'm getting worked up just thinking about it. In her book "The One Hundred" Nina Garcia gives great advice when it comes to trying on jeans "Do not assume that because a brand is expensive or a friend or celebrity 'swears by them' that they will be the right jeans for you. One brand does not suit all."<br /><br />She goes on to advise trying on many, many pairs until you find that magical one. I don't think a woman needs more than 2 pairs of jeans. Also, you will most likely/definitely need to have them tailored. All bodies are not made alike. And that is a GOOD thing.<br /><br />There are so many brands out there that cost so much money! More than $100 for a pair of jeans? I don't think so! I paid $30 dollars for mine and Uniqlo and that included hemming! I have a very mobile job- even when I come in when I am not teaching I am usually picking things up or bending down to grab this or that. I need jeans that have a bit of stretch. Unless you are just sitting all day you probably do too.<br /><br />Here are a few photos of how movable the jeans I chose from Uniqlo really are.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3LabpU_0bzk/VLa-4FhYR-I/AAAAAAAAAls/lVHMscuRBS8/s1600/jeans4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3LabpU_0bzk/VLa-4FhYR-I/AAAAAAAAAls/lVHMscuRBS8/s1600/jeans4.jpg" height="320" width="289" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-igALJiwm4mo/VLa-3B7Zs5I/AAAAAAAAAlg/_04Q7djbS38/s1600/jeans1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-igALJiwm4mo/VLa-3B7Zs5I/AAAAAAAAAlg/_04Q7djbS38/s1600/jeans1.jpg" height="320" width="227" /></a></div><br />I can literally jump, bend over and pick something up, run, everything! Which is really important to me. When I bend over to grab something I don't need the world to see my crack. And neither do you- so pick a pair of jeans that fit properly! Sit down in them in the dressing room, jump up and down, you are going to be living your life in these, not just standing perfectly.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_pQ3tLPWnZk/VLa-3Z8cCaI/AAAAAAAAAlo/5KsXX1l7Gk4/s1600/jeans3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_pQ3tLPWnZk/VLa-3Z8cCaI/AAAAAAAAAlo/5KsXX1l7Gk4/s1600/jeans3.jpg" height="320" width="291" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">&nbsp;Uniqlo Jeans Rolled Up- &nbsp;Ballet Flat Shoes &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6KrnYIc2Gs/VLa-3FlfOyI/AAAAAAAAAlk/VtovJrY2yj4/s1600/jeans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6KrnYIc2Gs/VLa-3FlfOyI/AAAAAAAAAlk/VtovJrY2yj4/s1600/jeans.jpg" height="320" width="272" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; Shot of My Awesome Burberry Trench</div><br /><br />They are a super dark wash, I went a size up from my normal because I don't think jeans need to squeeze your butt to look good. Sometimes less is more. Actually all the time. My next pair on my hit list are Levi's 501s which I will most likely buy next week. I won't do an entire post about them but I'll make sure they are in a photo and tag it accordingly.<br /><br />Happy denim shopping, ladies!<br /><br />I hope you are reading and enjoying. Feel free to follow my blog, email me, find me on facebook or follow me on Instagram&nbsp;@Miss_allyjean<br /><br />Your blushing beauty,<br /><br />Miss Ally JeanAllison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-14099375005742528502015-01-12T14:17:00.002-08:002015-01-12T14:23:59.593-08:00Frye Harness Boot and Watch Hello fellow fashionistas. It's been a little over two months since I started this journey of collecting all 100 items from Nina Garcia's "The One Hundred." Nina's book describes, in great detail, one hundred items every woman should have in her closet.<br /><br />Since this journey began, I discover every single day, how much easier it is to get dressed in the morning. I have my "core" items that I know will look great on, and I bring in my own little flair by accessorizing. Every day, at least when I'm not teaching, I grab a great pear of jeans and white Hanes T-shirt. Or maybe a simple black dress that I jazz up with a big necklace. Or perhaps a leopard print dress with a big cocktail ring for date night with Mike.<br /><br />No matter the occasion, I feel armed and ready to go to any event, at ANY moment. All of this I must credit to the lovely and brilliant Nina Garcia.<br /><br />Today, I wore several of the items from the book into work. Jeans, trench, cable knit, watch, and Frye boots. Once I came home, I realized I had only mentioned one of these so far- so I pulled out the camera and took some shots of today's look for you ladies!<br /><br /><br />#33. Frye Harness Boot<br /><br />I truly enjoyed reading this entry from Nina. Here is a short introduction about the Frye Boot:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">"In the 60's, women began to wear Frye boots in clear and bold defiance of restrictive 1950s femininity. They were a boot that meant strength and power, which women were intent on claiming at the time. &nbsp;High heels took a backseat to these clunky, chunky boots." -Nina Garcia&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nina goes on to tell how a pair of Frye's even lives in the Smithsonian Institution. How cool is that?!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I am 100% on board for clothing and accessories that support an androgynous feel. It may surprise you that until my early twenties, I hated shopping. HATED. I wanted to be comfortable in my stretchy pants and plain white T-shirts until college came along and I had to learn how to present myself in a professional way, while still maintaining my individuality. I love the look of boots and jeans, a mens watch, and a flirty pony tail with soft makeup. That is what inspired today.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U9disZceytY/VLREshde89I/AAAAAAAAAk4/IKYLBLmm-0E/s1600/fryeharness%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U9disZceytY/VLREshde89I/AAAAAAAAAk4/IKYLBLmm-0E/s1600/fryeharness%2Bcopy.jpg" height="640" width="334" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There are many, many options when choosing a Frye Harness Boot. I recommend trying several pairs on in different styles and colors. It's worth noting that I went a size down from my standard. This pair set me back about $300 at Bloomingdales on Boxing Day. However, I've worn them at least 5 or 6 times since then, and I plan on wearing them very frequently. Take some time reading over this part of Nina's book. The history behind these boots is fascinating and empowering.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ICw7gkYc9cM/VLRDeikadwI/AAAAAAAAAko/XNaSeLW1V3Y/s1600/fryeharness2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ICw7gkYc9cM/VLRDeikadwI/AAAAAAAAAko/XNaSeLW1V3Y/s1600/fryeharness2.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Frye Harness Boot</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">#94. Watch&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There is something romantic about wearing a watch. Not relying on your cellphone for the time but actually taking a look at your wrist. Who would have thought??&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I actually own three watches. One is a beautiful Kate Spade watch my Mother gave to me on Christmas several years ago. Second is my work watch, used only for timing exercise, its blue and somewhat ghastly. The last I picked up recently at a going out of business sale in the Men's section.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today I was already going for that "masculine" feel so I opted to wear my new men's gold Nixon watch. Here is Nina's take on men's watches, "...Or you can opt for a man's watch. I personally love the look of a man's watch on a woman's wrist. The big, bold masculinity of the design draws the eye to the wrist, one of most feminine parts of a woman's body."&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Plus its ahem SEXY! Dressing with a masculine edge is fricken' sexy. It makes you feel empowered and kind of bossy. I love it. Here is a close up photo of the Nixon I wore this morning.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p3to59-2dak/VLRDeYxaiNI/AAAAAAAAAkk/Zc8gkojLIyo/s1600/menswatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p3to59-2dak/VLRDeYxaiNI/AAAAAAAAAkk/Zc8gkojLIyo/s1600/menswatch.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Gold Nixon Watch&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I paid 40% less than face value for this watch at the sale, but I believe it retails for around $225. I get compliments on this watch any time I wear it out. It's just fabulous! I recommend having one feminine and one masculine watch in your jewelry box. They make great statement pieces and act as jewelry. Two birds.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QzJTrZgSas/VLRJEwOfxDI/AAAAAAAAAlA/Ddmo2K33-Cg/s1600/menswatchandfrye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QzJTrZgSas/VLRJEwOfxDI/AAAAAAAAAlA/Ddmo2K33-Cg/s1600/menswatchandfrye.jpg" height="640" width="297" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you are enjoying my entries for each of these 100 items! It really is changing my life, the way I see myself, how I spend my money, and how I get dressed every morning. My eyes have been opened to an endless world of possibilities! Ladies- take inventory of your closet. Sell what you don't wear or need and start collecting the things that will make you feel beautiful, and stand the test of time.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Your blushing beauty,&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Miss Ally Jean&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-58436113554788524812015-01-05T14:26:00.002-08:002015-01-05T14:27:24.045-08:00Trench Coat#86. Trench<br /><br />The trench coat entry deserves to stand on its own. This will be only about the trench and nothing else.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8xdvqMNf9s/VKsM1QoF-nI/AAAAAAAAAkM/9Lk9T2wiOGg/s1600/Audrey-Hepburns-style-in-Breakfast-at-Tiffanys-16-e1377583594564.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8xdvqMNf9s/VKsM1QoF-nI/AAAAAAAAAkM/9Lk9T2wiOGg/s1600/Audrey-Hepburns-style-in-Breakfast-at-Tiffanys-16-e1377583594564.png" height="223" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Breakfast at Tiffany's, Audrey Hepburn. Her in that gorgeous trench coat. So chic, so simple, so alluring. Who didn't want to be Holly Golightly after watching that film? (Minus the smoking)<br /><br />The Burberry trench coat is something I have wanted to add to my wardrobe for years. YEARS! I purposefully have never purchased a coat in order to truly appreciate the trench when, if ever, it came into my life.<br /><br />Lucky for me, that day was today! Never mind that I will be paying it off for the next year... my husband agreed to buy it for me if I made a payment plan so currently we have a little trench payment thermometer on the fridge that will take some time to fill up!<br /><br />I think this part of Nina Garcia's "The One Hundred" was my favorite section of the book. That and the little black dress. She explains the importance of having a great trench coat, and how it can save any outfit. However my favorite part was the history of the trench.<br /><br />Here is a short excerpt by Nina about the trench;<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">"Every aspect of the trench coat is purely functional, since it was originally created as a coat for British soldiers to wear during WWI. It is made of tightly woven gabardine, for water resistance. It is long enough to keep the rain out of a soldier's boots. It has a double-breasted closure and straps on the cuffs to tighten when it rains. (...) The coat became a British institution, a film-noir mainstay, and a style staple for both men and women." (p.245)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Did it ever! So many companies make a variation of this original trench coat but the first were in fact made by Burberry and in my opinion, they are the best. They are waterproof, handmade, the buttons are made of horn, the list goes on.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Pictures of all the Burberry coats can be found&nbsp;<a href="http://us.burberry.com/womens-trench-coats/" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;and the specific one I purchased can be found&nbsp;<a href="http://us.burberry.com/the-kensington-long-heritage-trench-coat-p39133621?search=true" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;in the color Stone. I made an "unboxing" video for the coat but I will tell you a bit more.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4isKkhdV9ek/VKsMCJ4d5BI/AAAAAAAAAj8/QtqRWydu2oA/s1600/1623ece3a2004fd30edc2a0d33b83882290e11e4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4isKkhdV9ek/VKsMCJ4d5BI/AAAAAAAAAj8/QtqRWydu2oA/s1600/1623ece3a2004fd30edc2a0d33b83882290e11e4.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fSwVDBBsvpo/VKsMClTmGuI/AAAAAAAAAkA/KQx2xYwakAE/s1600/b51d91fda1a1f604a0fdc7de0396486026044a1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fSwVDBBsvpo/VKsMClTmGuI/AAAAAAAAAkA/KQx2xYwakAE/s1600/b51d91fda1a1f604a0fdc7de0396486026044a1b.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I originally purchased this coat in Honey. But after a night of sleep I realized that the Stone was really the color that would stand the test of time. For me at least. The Honey was beautiful too! I will say this is the MOST I have ever spent on a single item of clothing. So take your time picking one out. Ask the person helping you at the store to bring out all the colors, lengths and styles that you are considering. You do NOT want to drop two grand on something you can't see yourself wearing in 30 years. Unless your a wealthy celebrity and maybe not even then.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I hope, with fingers crossed, that you consider investing in a trench coat. It does not even need to be from Burberry. There are tons of different options, styles, and brands to choose from! One quick google search will offer endless choices. I feel very strongly that a good trench coat is an essential part of every woman's wardrobe. That and a good pair of heels, and you are ready to rule the world.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I have to thank Nina Garcia for finally giving me that extra push towards making the investment. I'm sure you will be seeing many future posts with me wearing the coat!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In other news I have now entered spending hibernation. A: Because I need to pay off my coat. B: Because there are other things on my "one hundred list" that need saving up for. I do have a lot of the items on the list, because I owned them before I read Nina's book. I will be making future posts on my preowned items and nothing brand new out of the box. But they will be FABULOUS none the less.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Cheers, darlings!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Miss Ally Jean&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">PS: Here is a link to the video! Yes my hair is messy, whatever! &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ga6QBmPVUAI">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ga6QBmPVUAI</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-61114523073864032102014-12-29T15:48:00.001-08:002014-12-29T15:49:38.980-08:00Driving Shoes and Hoop Earrings <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Words cannot describe how happy I am that Christmas is finally over. Nothing is as over as Christmas.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I will say that my family and friends are so generous, and I do love giving gifts as well. This year considering I am writing this blog about Nina Garcia's "The One Hundred" I definitely had a list of items I wanted, and ideas how to use any money I received as a gift.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">#28. Driving Shoe&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I asked my husband, Mike, for a pair of metallic driving shoes.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is a little information from Nina;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Also called the car shoe, it is a light shoe with its roots in the loafer. The car shoe is differentiated by the tiny rubber gussets on the soles, which were intended for traction when driving."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She describes how the driving shoe was originally worn by men on the way to black tie affairs before changing into a dress shoe. Such a concept! Nina also suggests Tod's which is an Italian company known for their driving shoes.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Nina encourages one to buy the driving shoe in a fun color, keeping the hardware to a minimum, and stepping outside the box with prints. So many possibilities! I have always been a big fan of Sperry Top Siders, who are known for their boating shoe, but I feel as though my petite frame cannot accommodate such a shoe. They always look too thick on my feet, like I am trying to compensate for my height. But a sleek driving shoe?! Why had I not thought of this before?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The pair I asked Santa (Mike) to bring me is the pair seen here:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.sperrytopsider.com/en/katharine-pastel-1-eye-driver/13660W.html?ref=driving%20shoe&amp;dwvar_13660W_color=STS90942#q=driving+shoe&amp;prefn1=genericSizeType&amp;prefv1=W&amp;start=1">Sperry Top Sider Driving Shoe</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've been playing around with different ways to wear these. So far my favorite is with the white pants, and a fun preppy top. Examples include: Cashmere sweater, polo shirt, striped boat neck shirt.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FAi4aO6p0MY/VKHPKvaywJI/AAAAAAAAAjg/yOaLxhzW8dU/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FAi4aO6p0MY/VKHPKvaywJI/AAAAAAAAAjg/yOaLxhzW8dU/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(4).jpg" height="267" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;Under different lighting these shoes either look gold or silver, which I love.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They are extremely comfortable and can be worn with almost any casual outfit. I would definitely recommend them with pants, maybe not skirts or dresses but who knows. With the right accessories I'm sure you could make it work!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"># 39. Hoop Earrings</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Nina keeps her advice about hoop earrings short and sweet. "They can be bought at any price point and in an array of styles and sizes. But stick with silver or gold. In general, the thinner, the better."&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She also advises to stick to hoops that are in proportion with your face, hair and neckline. Again as a shorter person this can be challenging. Big hoops would probably end up looking silly on me. You know what they say, "The bigger the hoop..." Just kidding. Kind of.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After some research and hunting I came across a pair of Michael Kors thin silver hoops. (This man can do no wrong I tell you!) And instantly these were on my Christmas list. A link to the earrings&nbsp;<a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/michael-kors-thin-silver-tone-hoop-earrings?ID=655388&amp;CategoryID=55285&amp;zone=PDP_ZONE_B&amp;choiceId=cidBA0011-c205e4d3-a44c-4fd8-9af4-7295a251e2c4@H5@you%20might%20also%20like...$55285$655388&amp;REC=PDPZ2_Pos3">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My dear friends April and Nelson were kind enough to give them to me as a present! So awesome! Here is an up close photo of the jewelry.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0JuLx8IA5U4/VKHPKtplYtI/AAAAAAAAAjk/f0KmTgVzFFI/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0JuLx8IA5U4/VKHPKtplYtI/AAAAAAAAAjk/f0KmTgVzFFI/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o3vz5eWiRXY/VKHPKVvl9cI/AAAAAAAAAjc/hqr8uUOVCps/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o3vz5eWiRXY/VKHPKVvl9cI/AAAAAAAAAjc/hqr8uUOVCps/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(5).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They are thin and delicate, dainty and perfect!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is a photo of the entire outfit. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HHL7da29OVo/VKHJ0_jErzI/AAAAAAAAAjM/whYj-K2OilQ/s1600/drivingshoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HHL7da29OVo/VKHJ0_jErzI/AAAAAAAAAjM/whYj-K2OilQ/s1600/drivingshoes.jpg" height="640" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Easy white pants, a boat neck striped shirt, driving shoes, and hoop earrings.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Today's post is shorter than usual but I am getting back into the game after the holidays. Learning how to use all of my photo equipment- great things are happening.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Your blushing beauty,&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Miss Ally Jean&nbsp;</div>Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-19207407629835049972014-12-23T11:13:00.000-08:002014-12-23T11:21:46.112-08:00Knee Boots and Wellington Boots This is another post about my journey of collecting all 100 items from Nina Garcia's "The One Hundred". A brilliant book about one hundred items every woman needs in her closet...<br /><br />Oh what a joy! The rainy season is finally here after what felt like years of drought. We need this rain so badly.<br /><br />On the other hand, the rain has caught me somewhat off guard- as I do (did) not really own any clothing or shoes that are suitable for sloshing around.<br /><br />I feel as though I cannot talk about rain boots without first discussing other knee boots. I have a particularly difficult time finding a good knee boot because my legs are so gosh darn short. Not to mention thick due to lifting weights.<br /><br />So the journey for the perfect knee boot begins...<br /><br /><br />#45. Knee Boots<br /><br />"The version that every girl needs comes just below the knee and looks best when worn with skirts that hit just above the knee." - Nina Garcia<br /><br />Easier said than done Nina! ARGH! Last year I spent hours in Nordstrom trying on every. single. pair. of knee high boots in the shoe department. Curse these muscular calves!! I finally put on a pair that zipped right up- no shoving of calf into boot needed.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sUlYsJxeO98/VJm2SBMP0WI/AAAAAAAAAio/8HrXBKzGGGM/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sUlYsJxeO98/VJm2SBMP0WI/AAAAAAAAAio/8HrXBKzGGGM/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(4).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am also wearing knee high socks in these photos- more info later</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3HtJOWmUtY/VJm2R-1H8hI/AAAAAAAAAhw/QCO-NHEl_-I/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(10).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3HtJOWmUtY/VJm2R-1H8hI/AAAAAAAAAhw/QCO-NHEl_-I/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(10).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e2hkAKjaS7A/VJm2TVsnQ5I/AAAAAAAAAiI/MXSYLceg1fc/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e2hkAKjaS7A/VJm2TVsnQ5I/AAAAAAAAAiI/MXSYLceg1fc/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(9).jpg" height="320" width="204" /></a></div><br />These boots are Via Spiga, and I am assuming they do not make them anymore because they were on clearance last year. The name brand and the style are not important. What is important is that they fit, they are comfortable, and they hit me just below the knee. Also, the simple design guarantees they will go with almost any outfit.<br /><br />The boots look stellar with above-the-knee length skirts, tights and a dress, skinny jeans. The works. When going out to find the perfect pair of knee length boots I highly recommend wearing one of those three items - so you can be sure they will work with your wardrobe. Nordstrom seems to always have great sales on boots, especially this time of year so go check your local store!<br /><br />Oh if it were only that simple. I feel (very) strongly that a woman needs one pair of flat black boots, and one pair of heeled boots. So the challenge this year was to find a heeled boot that didn't make me look like a stripper (not that there is anything wrong with that) and had a simple yet fun look.<br /><br />I had a gift card to Macy's and I had been eyeballing a pair of Vince Camuto boots for some time. So a few days ago I went to try them on to test out the comfort and fit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fT2rfZ_tr4E/VJm2S6uJjMI/AAAAAAAAAiA/xX0xv7irTtk/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(7).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fT2rfZ_tr4E/VJm2S6uJjMI/AAAAAAAAAiA/xX0xv7irTtk/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(7).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UgeKxPgFEjo/VJm2TPWPSnI/AAAAAAAAAiE/jL_ll94cnhs/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(8).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UgeKxPgFEjo/VJm2TPWPSnI/AAAAAAAAAiE/jL_ll94cnhs/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(8).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is worth noting that these also come in a "wide calf" version seen here:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/vince-camuto-emilian-tall-wide-calf-dress-boots?ID=1659675&amp;CategoryID=13247#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D12%26kws%3Dvince%20camuto%20knee%20boot%26slotId%3D6">http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/vince-camuto-emilian-tall-wide-calf-dress-boots?ID=1659675&amp;CategoryID=13247#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D12%26kws%3Dvince%20camuto%20knee%20boot%26slotId%3D6</a></div><br />I would check your local Macy's because I only paid $99 dollars for mine and they are listed for more online. Are these lifetime knee high boots for me? The gold zipper on the side says "No." But I think they are appropriate and fun for my late 20's and possibly early 30's. I will more than likely be replacing them with a non-zippered version in a few years but for now these are just the ticket.<br /><br />"If wearing knee-high boots with mini skirts, it's probably best to wear opaque tights." Good advice, Nina!<br /><br />#96. Wellington Boots<br /><br />Nina references a photo of Kate Moss wearing Hunter Wellington boots at a music festival in 2005. Upon a google search I came across several images of said boots. Here is one:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CUZ8P32gY7Q/VJm7l985OUI/AAAAAAAAAi4/u4_lj1udE3A/s1600/image3xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CUZ8P32gY7Q/VJm7l985OUI/AAAAAAAAAi4/u4_lj1udE3A/s1600/image3xl.jpg" height="320" width="250" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Does this muddy look inspire my glamorous side? No. But it's cute and I like music festivals too so it was worth diving a little deeper.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Again, I found myself at Nordstrom, looking at the Hunter boots. It was as though they were staring back at me, mocking me with their "knee high" length. Saying "Ally, your tiny little legs will never fit these rain boots!" With some hesitation I grabbed the boots off the display, luckily in my size, and tried them on. BAM!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wmNOiW7aR0M/VJm2SZnFxtI/AAAAAAAAAh4/CbL4H3jUs-I/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wmNOiW7aR0M/VJm2SZnFxtI/AAAAAAAAAh4/CbL4H3jUs-I/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(5).jpg" height="400" width="206" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A perfect fit!&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xe_UAjqma3g/VJm2StggfTI/AAAAAAAAAh8/b85ltkXm88Q/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xe_UAjqma3g/VJm2StggfTI/AAAAAAAAAh8/b85ltkXm88Q/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6).jpg" height="400" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br />I could see myself wearing this with everything but the kitchen sink. They are so comfortable and easy to walk in. Unlike some other stiff and stubborn rain boots. They were on sale, how could I say no?! They do run large. I usually wear a 7.5 and I purchased these in a 7 and they are a great fit with socks and tights. Hello rainy days!<br /><br />If you are considering investing in several pairs of boots for winter, or even one pair, I would suggest getting a pair of over-the-knee socks. I tend to struggle finding pairs that do not smoosh my legs like little sausages. Yesterday I discovered a pair that fit well and do not cut off my circulation.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rHJgTvgtBZI/VJm2SKPGs-I/AAAAAAAAAh0/ke4Pm1xLCdo/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(11).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rHJgTvgtBZI/VJm2SKPGs-I/AAAAAAAAAh0/ke4Pm1xLCdo/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(11).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">$12 Black Socks Worn in all the Photos</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I hope you found this post helpful for your own journey of finding the perfect knee length boot, and gave you ideas of what to wear them with. The truth is your boots should really go with everything you have! So take your time finding the right pair! Put on a pair of boots and you'll be ready to conquer the world!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In the wise words of Nancy Sinatra "These boots were made for walkin'".</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Your blushing beauty,&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Miss Ally Jean</div>Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-86708956147656578932014-12-19T15:54:00.001-08:002014-12-19T16:21:00.918-08:00My Beauty Secrets It's really no secret that most women have large pores, short eyelashes, and dry skin. It's like- a LOT of pressure to look amazing all the time.<br /><br />Especially when you suffer from acne, rosacea, or just occasional wretchedness. I know I do.<br /><br />I've dabbled in both the natural and chemical of basically every beauty product out there. I've made my own products, even, some have turned out to be quite successful- others not so much.<br /><br />I am going to show you some tips and tricks and I will finish this post with the one product that I think is a game changer in the complexion world.<br /><br />It seams trivial - but drinking enough water every day will make your skin look so much better. I don't mean, have a few glasses of water every day. I mean drink at least 1 liter of water every day if not 2. Hydration is everything. Start here and if you don't see a huge difference in your complexion in a week I'd be shocked.<br /><br /><b>Enlarged Pores</b><br /><br />First of all if you have large pores there are a few things you can do to cover this while you are treating them. There are two products out there that you put on BEFORE you put your foundation on and both of them work well. They are the same item made by two different brands so I am going to give you the high/low.<br /><br /><b>High - Benefit Porefessional $31</b><br /><br />I've used this product for years and it works well (although I do not currently use it because ..well I'll get into that). It is expensive, though. It fills your pores before you put on your makeup so it isn't a permanent solution to the problem, but it will give your makeup a flawless look when used.<br /><br /><b>Low - Maybelline Baby Skin Pore Eraser - $6</b><br /><b><br /></b>The feel of this product on the skin is not as light as the Benefit but the outcome looks the same. So if you are on a budget (or even if you're not!) this is a great option. I bought mine at Target.<br /><br /><br />In addition to these, Glam Glow makes a great mask for pore reduction.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.sephora.com/super-mud-clearing-treatment-P376409?skuId=1473735">http://www.sephora.com/super-mud-clearing-treatment-P376409?skuId=1473735</a><br /><br />The Glam Glow mask was recommended to me by my makeup artist for our wedding, Savannah Perez. The girl knows her stuff. See her work here :&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hausofsavy.com/">http://www.hausofsavy.com/</a><br /><br /><b>Red Skin&nbsp;</b><br /><b><br /></b>If you have red or splotchy skin, also known as rosacea, you may have a food allergy. I used to get extremely red skin from eating tomatoes. Sometimes I still get it if I have straight espresso, alcohol, or spicy foods. Try eliminating these things first to see if it has an effect.<br /><br />In the mean time there are things you can do to cover the redness. A yellow tinted concealer can be extremely helpful to cover any redness especially from breakouts. Blending properly does take a practiced hand, so take some time to work on your application skills before leaving the house. This is my go to pallet for covering any redness or blemishes.<br /><br /><b>Mac Studio Conceal and Correct $40 and worth every penny</b><br /><br /><a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/9860/23771/Cult-Classics/Studio/Studio-Conceal-and-Correct-PaletteLight/index.tmpl">http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/9860/23771/Cult-Classics/Studio/Studio-Conceal-and-Correct-PaletteLight/index.tmpl</a><br /><br /><br /><b>My Cure-all = Clarisonic&nbsp;</b><br /><b><br /></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q9s7zZs1jWg/VJS7H1PXh9I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/TaF_xkUfyck/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(5)%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q9s7zZs1jWg/VJS7H1PXh9I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/TaF_xkUfyck/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(5)%2Bcopy.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div><b><br /></b><br />Now I am really going to get into the nitty gritty of how I changed my skin for the better. Let me emphasize by saying I tried many, MANY natural options. Some good ones- tea tree oil, oil cleansing, honey masks... the list goes on. But none of these were a permanent solution for me.<br /><br />I started a new skin regime about a month ago and my skin has done a complete one-eighty. I decided to try using proactive&nbsp;+ which states to be much better than the original formula. I used to use proactive back in the day and did not like it. I also purchased a Clarisonic with a sensitive head attachment.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bXmc1ZfEHq0/VJS7K7EWydI/AAAAAAAAAhg/ustQ0Nkkf84/s1600/IMG_7697%2B(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bXmc1ZfEHq0/VJS7K7EWydI/AAAAAAAAAhg/ustQ0Nkkf84/s1600/IMG_7697%2B(1).JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><b><u>Now my nightly routine goes like this:</u></b><br /><br />1. Wash face with Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser - this is a super quick was just to remove the makeup.<br /><br />2. Apply small amount of Step 1 of Proactive&nbsp;+ to my Clarisonic and wash face - takes 1 minute<br /><br />3. Follow steps 2 and 3 of the Proactive&nbsp;+ system.<br /><br />In the morning, I just rinse my face with water or wash with a small amount of the Neutrogena.<br /><br /><br />This is what works for ME. If you don't suffer from moderate to mild breakouts but have enlarged pores or red skin I would recommend the Clarisonic with the sensitive attachment with a mild cleanser like the Neutrogena.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-poOZ-Gl4o88/VJS67Mw27nI/AAAAAAAAAhI/dx9hHyOJKyI/s1600/IMG_7696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-poOZ-Gl4o88/VJS67Mw27nI/AAAAAAAAAhI/dx9hHyOJKyI/s1600/IMG_7696.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><b>Pointers- Do not start all out with the Clarisonic. Start 3x per week and move up to 1x per day.&nbsp;</b><br /><b><br /></b>I have notice a HUGE change in the size of my pores meaning they are MUCH smaller than they used to be. My skin is always soft, and makeup application looks 100x better. Yes the Clarisonic is expensive, but for me it was worth the investment to feel confident about my skin.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Today is the LAST DAY of Clarisonic's 20% off deal&nbsp;</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.clarisonic.com/">http://www.clarisonic.com/</a></span></b><br /><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Short Lashes</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Final words for all my ladies out there who are looking for the perfect mascara to create the look of long lashes. I swear by this combo:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wUR1IWOSy6o/VJS7JvlEVXI/AAAAAAAAAhY/GjB6L905BN0/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6)%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wUR1IWOSy6o/VJS7JvlEVXI/AAAAAAAAAhY/GjB6L905BN0/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6)%2Bcopy.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><b>Dior Maximizer and Dior Overcurl $25 each</b><br /><b><br /></b><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The white tube is a prep/primer for your lashes. It conditions and lengthens. The silver tube has an awesome curved applicator that adds plenty of curl and bounce to the lashes. If you have to pick only one bottle, go for the Overcurl. Dior frequently has buy two get one free deals. Stock up when you can. It's a show stopper.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If $25 dollar mascara is out of your price range:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 16.1200008392334px;">L'Oréal</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 16.1200008392334px;">&nbsp;</span></span>makes a mascara called Voluminous Original. This does not provide a lot of curl though so be sure to curl your lashes well, before applying. Although you should be curling your lashes before you apply your mascara anyways... but do NOT curl them once you have mascara on. That's just asking for trouble.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Maybelline makes a mascara called Pumped Up! In a bright pink and yellow tube. This is what I call a "purse mascara." Perfect for throwing on at any time. Adds volume and length.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><br />I hope this information was helpful for you ladies. Please feel free to ask questions or shoot me a message if you have anything specific you'd like to know!<br /><br />Your blushing beauty<br /><br />Miss Ally Jean<br /><br />Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-78309799148849337772014-12-19T15:12:00.000-08:002014-12-19T15:17:33.924-08:00Cuff, Plain White Tee, Silk Scarf My "studio" is under construction. Meaning I am turning Mike's old office into my filming, photographing, blogging room. It definitely needs a woman's touch. Currently It's a desk, a cardboard moose head, and some photography lights. Super cute. Today's photos will have a little peak into what that currently looks like.<br /><br />Continuing on with Nina Garcia's "The One Hundred" there will be three items today. I also want to talk a little more about what she says in her book, as I find it truly fascinating.<br /><br />#25. Cuff<br /><br />Many of the cuffs Miss Garcia references in her book are far, far....far out of my price range. Although they are beautiful. One in particular is the Vedura cuff starting at around $12,500. Cough cough... umm no. Beautiful! But unless I hit it big that will never happen.<br /><br />She also mentions the Elsa Paretti Wave cuff from Tiffany and Co. Upon a Google search I came across this stunning image.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4VxVjx0vcEI/VJSr7K8mb8I/AAAAAAAAAf4/8y7G8XV_5vc/s1600/6_641e129b-2ba3-4b65-80f8-097b9a63fbe6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4VxVjx0vcEI/VJSr7K8mb8I/AAAAAAAAAf4/8y7G8XV_5vc/s1600/6_641e129b-2ba3-4b65-80f8-097b9a63fbe6.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></div><br />The beautiful and talented Liza and the breathtaking Sophia. Icons. Both of them.<br /><br />I decided to go for the darker of the two that Liza is wearing in the shape that Sophia has on, which is in fact the Bone cuff by Tiffany and Co.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6YENs-dhBmk/VJSsd0k2F3I/AAAAAAAAAgA/Qz0iY5X3kLA/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6YENs-dhBmk/VJSsd0k2F3I/AAAAAAAAAgA/Qz0iY5X3kLA/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(5).jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gXOaJCvXv7c/VJSsfUOboyI/AAAAAAAAAgI/tNYAl9kFJCk/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(10).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gXOaJCvXv7c/VJSsfUOboyI/AAAAAAAAAgI/tNYAl9kFJCk/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(10).jpg" height="271" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's a lovely piece. Masculine yet feminine. I wear a lot of black and it adds a touch of glamour to fancy and casual outfits. I have been wearing it around the house in my pajamas. I may never take it off.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">#67. Plain White Tee</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">"I am obsessed with Hanes three-packs. They cost nothing and will last a long time." -Nina Garcia</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Who am I to argue with a statement like that? I also love Hanes white T-shirts. I purchase the V-necks although they also come in a crew neck. I find the V option to be more flattering. You surely can spend a pretty penny on a designer white tee but WHY? Why.. I do not understand the expensive plain white tee. Frequently I find myself even stealing one of Mikes out of his closet- his are from J Crew and they are super soft and comfy.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The plain white tee goes with everything. Sometimes I wear them with gray skinny jeans, a blazer, ballet flats and a pearl necklace. Or with jeans and boots. The options are endless. If you haven't purchased a value pack of these from the men's department in Target, you are missing out!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-13PiLUrzdKc/VJSurAmYRXI/AAAAAAAAAgU/ZmBI5qkEpYs/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(7).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-13PiLUrzdKc/VJSurAmYRXI/AAAAAAAAAgU/ZmBI5qkEpYs/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(7).jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VdA73VaJDd4/VJSussNB-cI/AAAAAAAAAgc/y9Vdw4cBKLk/s1600/IMG_7678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VdA73VaJDd4/VJSussNB-cI/AAAAAAAAAgc/y9Vdw4cBKLk/s1600/IMG_7678.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Look at all those cords! Lights and things everywhere! I will be so happy when it's finally all set up. Plus a camera on a tripod so I no longer have to take iPhone selfies...<br /><br /><br />#78. Silk Scarf<br /><br />Nina Garcia in all her wisdom gives great advice on wearing the silk scarf "Consider it a piece of jewelry and wear it as such (it should add oomph and drama)."<br /><br />I couldn't agree more. I love seeing all the different ways women come up with to wear a silk scarf. Tied in a pony tail, used as a belt, tied around the neck with the triangle pointing down. Endless options.<br /><br />My silk scarf came as a surprise today. I met up with my mom for coffee after work this morning and she brought me a few treasures. My grandmother passed away when I was quite young. I met her a few times but really have no memory of her. It is a shame. She was beautiful and had lovely taste. Today my mom brought me her cashmere sweater (a wonderful shade of cream) and her silk scarf from London.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S-46s_7uANg/VJSwHrxUhOI/AAAAAAAAAgo/VFvVZmP27FU/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(8).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S-46s_7uANg/VJSwHrxUhOI/AAAAAAAAAgo/VFvVZmP27FU/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(8).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-011XI8xdevo/VJSwI7OcPhI/AAAAAAAAAgw/ln_BCIQHUBw/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-011XI8xdevo/VJSwI7OcPhI/AAAAAAAAAgw/ln_BCIQHUBw/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(9).jpg" height="314" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Look at those lovely greens! You can imagine my excitement when receiving this today.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bvxP3wuJWTg/VJSwSyqPO8I/AAAAAAAAAg4/Xw19aoR6b4I/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bvxP3wuJWTg/VJSwSyqPO8I/AAAAAAAAAg4/Xw19aoR6b4I/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6).jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I like to think my grandmother can see me wearing this scarf, and that she is smiling.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Needless to say we can't all get scarves passed down to us via grandmother. There are lots of silk scarves for less than $20 dollars at most thrift stores. It may take hunting through a few bins but if you are patient the right scarf will find you!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you enjoyed todays entries from "The One Hundred."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Your blushing beauty,&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Miss Ally Jean&nbsp;</div><br /><br />Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-42149005422647554372014-12-18T11:22:00.002-08:002014-12-18T11:22:58.190-08:00Blush Application Blush Application<br /><br />I wont say too much here except that this is a easy and quick blush tutorial. Every day wear. Grab throw on and go type of look. Easy and comes out looking super flawless.<br /><br /><br />Here is the link to the video!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EluRKY-Pz4A">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EluRKY-Pz4A</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Main take-a-ways&nbsp;</b><br /><br />Use something for contour : a brown or nude blush - or matte bronzer<br /><br />Layer your preferred colored blush on top of the contour.<br /><br />Blend blend blend.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Here are links for the products in the video<br /><br /><b>Mac Brushes #129 and #168</b><br /><br /><a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/flash/brush_finder/index.tmpl">http://www.maccosmetics.com/flash/brush_finder/index.tmpl</a><br /><br /><b>Pin up passion brush set</b><br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Best-Makeup-Brushes-Friendly-Top-Instructions/dp/B00FXGZCFE">http://www.amazon.com/Best-Makeup-Brushes-Friendly-Top-Instructions/dp/B00FXGZCFE</a><br /><br /><b>Hoola by Benefit&nbsp;</b><br /><br /><a href="http://www.sephora.com/hoola-P290636">http://www.sephora.com/hoola-P290636</a><br /><br /><b>Sonia Kashuk Holiday Brushes&nbsp;</b><br /><br /><a href="http://www.target.com/p/sonia-kashuk-holiday-limited-edition-all-that-jazz-10-piece-brush-set/-/A-15761994#prodSlot=medium_1_2&amp;term=sonia+kashuk+holiday+brushes">http://www.target.com/p/sonia-kashuk-holiday-limited-edition-all-that-jazz-10-piece-brush-set/-/A-15761994#prodSlot=medium_1_2&amp;term=sonia+kashuk+holiday+brushes</a><br /><br /><br /><br />Your blushing beauty,<br /><br />Miss Ally JeanAllison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-80246082315233174722014-12-18T10:50:00.001-08:002014-12-18T11:14:36.020-08:00Fishnets, Mary Janes and Red Lipstick Last night I went to the most amazing 40th birthday party for a long time friend of mine. It was fabulous. They shut down a restaurant, rented a real photo booth, gave away decadent bottles of wine and beer as favors, delicious food and open bar. It was supreme! It has really gotten me in the mood for parties and the holidays!<br /><br />Continuing on my adventure of acquiring the 100 items, as so thoughtfully discussed by Nina Garcia in her book, "The One Hundred" -today I will be showing you three of my items from the list.<br /><br />#32. Fishnets.<br /><br />When you hear the word "fishnets" it may conjure up visions which some may label as "tacky." However, when done right fishnets can be a vital part of a woman's wardrobe. They are playful, sexy, and give your ensemble that extra edge.<br /><br />When buying fishnets be sure to buy a FINE mesh. Meaning not a lot of space between the squares. You will be able to find large spaced nets- those are great for halloween pirate outfits, but not much else.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MsvEB8BbWGI/VJMc_E5l36I/AAAAAAAAAes/V3rDcdWeZCQ/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MsvEB8BbWGI/VJMc_E5l36I/AAAAAAAAAes/V3rDcdWeZCQ/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(3).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;These are my favorite pair. Currently on sale an Nordstrom. 2 pairs for $30</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;Have fun with fishnets! They can be worn in so many different ways. Maybe avoid high to Heaven heels with a tiny skirt though? Keep it classy, ladies.&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GI7Qrsvx5s0/VJMdOIekU1I/AAAAAAAAAfM/hZFw4-ztLB8/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GI7Qrsvx5s0/VJMdOIekU1I/AAAAAAAAAfM/hZFw4-ztLB8/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" height="320" width="288" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Here are two fun and flirty options. Black with black heels. And nude under a white pant with a high heel. Why not?&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VV0_OXWz6fg/VJMeKnwnzuI/AAAAAAAAAfk/jLuVOpFWY3Q/s1600/IMG_7629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VV0_OXWz6fg/VJMeKnwnzuI/AAAAAAAAAfk/jLuVOpFWY3Q/s1600/IMG_7629.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">#54. Mary Janes&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mary Janes. What woman doesn't drool over a pair of these sweet yet sexy shoes. In a heel version they can evoke a sense of innocence with a powerful sting of vengeance. Don't mess with a girl in high heeled Mary Janes.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There are plenty of affordable options out there in a flat and in a heel. Find one that works for you. I would recommend a low strap. The ankle straps tend to cut off the leg in a really awkward and unforgiving way.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is a photo of my favorite Mary Janes. They were a gift from my husband when we first got married back at the beginning of the year (the TV wedding).&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kifaES4At_I/VJMdOIooMCI/AAAAAAAAAfY/sc_DQbHhzVc/s1600/IMG_7586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kifaES4At_I/VJMdOIooMCI/AAAAAAAAAfY/sc_DQbHhzVc/s1600/IMG_7586.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These are made by Christian Louboutin. Gotta love those red bottoms.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've worn these shoes with pants, skirts, dresses, you name it. They are a classic shoe that will never go out of style.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br />#72. Red Lipstick<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last night I wore red lipstick to the party. It's the holidays after all. Here is a photo of my makeup right before we left.&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WSOkQSW7QZg/VJMdOYyYfLI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/CdxYqS2apmY/s1600/IMG_7612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WSOkQSW7QZg/VJMdOYyYfLI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/CdxYqS2apmY/s1600/IMG_7612.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I had a Nordstrom gift card so I decided to use it on a tube of Chanel lipstick in color 99 "Pirate"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It is a blue undertone red lipstick which I think looks best with my olive skin. Other great reds- "Ruby Woo" by Mac, "Really Red" by Revlon. The list goes on. The best thing you can do is go to a makeup counter and try on as many shades as they have until you find the best version for you.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">WARNING: Red lipstick is NOT just a throw on and go lipstick. You need to prep your lips, line them well, and brush on your lipstick. Or be vary delicate with applying it straight from the tube. This takes practice, practice, and more practice but the pay off is oh-so-sweet.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jHPBxuyi_hA/VJMdB1Ix-WI/AAAAAAAAAfA/QnG-9TD8lgA/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jHPBxuyi_hA/VJMdB1Ix-WI/AAAAAAAAAfA/QnG-9TD8lgA/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(6).jpg" height="289" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">99 Pirate by Chanel&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you enjoyed today's entries. I will be posting again shorty with a blush application video. A frequently requested tutorial. Take care beautiful flowers- go out into the world and be glamorous!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Your blushing beauty,&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Miss Ally Jean&nbsp;</div><br />Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-43479328461269897672014-12-16T12:52:00.000-08:002014-12-16T12:54:47.720-08:00$3 Blush from E.L.F. My makeup obsession starts with lipstick. Always. Can never have enough. Never.<br /><br />My second love belongs to blush. I love new colors, purple shades, bright pinks. There are so many lovely blushes out there. Mac makes my favorite blush, the application is usually smooth and the colors can be exciting and classic. They really know whats up over there.<br /><br />But this post is about E.L.F. or Eyes Lips and Face blush. I have used a lot of blush so I've definitely come across the good and the bad.<br /><br />For a mere $3 dollars, thats pocket change!, these blushes are right up there with Mac for me.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rLXfPDk99dU/VJCaHXIVlAI/AAAAAAAAAeY/RpJ4MJo3pq8/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rLXfPDk99dU/VJCaHXIVlAI/AAAAAAAAAeY/RpJ4MJo3pq8/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B(1).jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I chose three colors, from Target by the way. Top left is Twinkle Pink. Top right is Pink Passion. And bottom is Mellow Mauve.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My two favorites are Mellow Mauve as number one, and Pink Passion as a close second. Twinkle Pink is okay, however it has a lot of sparkle which really doesn't do it for me.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mellow Mauve is almost a dupe of Mac's Animal Instinct from the Novel Romance collection. I really can't tell them apart. MM is a muted purple and looks lovely with those of you who have brown eyes and hair. Although, I could see it working for others as well.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Pink Passion looks extreme however it isn't super pigmented and comes out as a lovely just "pinched pink" look on the cheek. I truly love this shade.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For three dollars you really cannot lose with these blushes from E.L.F.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Go pick up a few! If you are unfamiliar with how to apply blush I will post soon about proper application. Heaven forbid we all walk around like we are stuck in the 80's with our blush only directly on the apples of our cheeks! Stay with the times, ladies!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Your blushing beauty&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Miss Ally Jean&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-39471112007871866482014-12-16T12:34:00.003-08:002014-12-16T12:36:03.679-08:00Cashmere, Pearls, and Stilettos Let me start by saying my husband is the most understanding human alive. For reals. On our wedding day he surprised me with the most beautiful wedding band from Tiffany and Co to compliment my engagement ring. I loved it, truly. But when I picked out my engagement ring I picked something that I thought looked so beautiful on its own, anything next to it takes away from its beauty. Mike, of course, was more than understanding and helped me return the ring and pick out a new necklace. Something that would last me a lifetime. With the leftovers, he said I could go on a fun little shopping spree- GOSH he's just the best.<br /><br />I have been reading a book suggested to me by a new friend. The book is called "The One Hundred" by Nina Garcia. Those of you unfamiliar, you may have seen her on the TV show Project Runway. Anyways, the book discusses 100 items every woman should own. Emphasis on the word own. The book is written in such a way that it gives you the list, but allows you to approach each item with your own individuality. She explains the items where it is logical to invest, and others you can spend less on.<br /><br />I have decided to acquire all 100 items (I had many already -as several of them are staple items most woman already own) and I plan on blogging about each and every one of them.<br /><br />I am going to start with three of them today. All three were purchased yesterday during my impromptu shopping spree.<br /><br />The book is written alphabetically so I will keep the items within the post alphabetical, however the entries themselves will not be.<br /><br />#18. Cashmere Sweater<br /><br />Cashmere has become exceptionally affordable these days. It is soft, versatile, and comes in endless colors. I hope to own several with different neck lines, but yesterday I purchased a simple crew neck pullover cardigan sweater. I bought it at Uniqlo- a fantastic modern store from Japan. The sweater retails around $50 and they frequently have sales. It came in several colors, and also came in a boatneck version. There are many options out there, some more expensive, some less- this is an item that you can save a little bit on or go all out. It's really up to you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vvnBC6YekC4/VJCV-f1keMI/AAAAAAAAAds/MSYNdiwLi_s/s1600/IMG_7525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vvnBC6YekC4/VJCV-f1keMI/AAAAAAAAAds/MSYNdiwLi_s/s1600/IMG_7525.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />#64. Pearl Necklace<br /><br />Who doesn't think of Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's when they see a lovely strand of pearls? I lust after every article of clothing and jewelry from that movie. Audrey is a vision and and icon in the film. So glamorous, such a free spirit.<br /><br />There are possibly a million different options when it comes to pearl necklaces. You can spend as little as $20 dollars at a store such as Nordstrom Rack, or in the thousands at Mikimoto. I decided to buy a single strand from Tiffany's to replace my ring as a lifetime, romantically inspired gift.<br /><br />I chose freshwater pearls- more affordable than cultured. The strand also has a classic Tiffany toggle closure on the back, which can be flipped to the front for a younger look. I plan on layering these with other longer strands of pearls, or simply wearing them with jeans and a t-shirt.<br /><br />It's best not to take pearls too seriously. That's what makes them so fabulous.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1OdznZ66IuQ/VJCWBDa2ziI/AAAAAAAAAd8/hlGsUSby2oY/s1600/IMG_7541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1OdznZ66IuQ/VJCWBDa2ziI/AAAAAAAAAd8/hlGsUSby2oY/s1600/IMG_7541.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div><br /><br />#82. Stilettos<br /><br />There is a reason Manolo Blanik, Jimmy Choo, and Christian Louboutin are the most coveted shoes by women. They are simply gorgeous. And comfortable!<br /><br />You do NOT want to skimp out on a pair of stilettos. I firmly believe every woman should own at least one luxury brand of shoes. Save up for them. Use your Christmas and birthday money. Prioritize! You will not regret it.<br /><br />Something happens when you put on a pair of Jimmy Choos. You become a new woman. Riddled with confidence and you feel SEXY. It sounds crazy to say a pair of shoes can do that for you but they do. It's power, beauty, and confidence all rolled into one delicious pair of stiletto's. Start saving.<br /><br />When you do invest in a pair- Be sure to get something you can wear with everything! Jeans, skirts, leggings you name it. A classic pair of black, and a nude pump should do. If you opt for a third pair I highly recommend a textured brown shoe.<br /><br />I purchased The Jimmy Choo Abel. It's a true nude. Not too pink or brown, but just right.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K5dR4Y9aYY4/VJCWAM_lbKI/AAAAAAAAAd0/vU8Rr9rm75Q/s1600/IMG_7524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K5dR4Y9aYY4/VJCWAM_lbKI/AAAAAAAAAd0/vU8Rr9rm75Q/s1600/IMG_7524.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div><br /><br />I plan on having all three of these items for the rest of my life. I also hope on passing down these pearls to my child, and his or her child and so on. Having heirlooms is something that is extremely important to me. Make sure you have a few items in your wardrobe or jewelry draw that can be passed on to the next generation.<br /><br />Your blushing beauty,<br /><br />Miss Ally JeanAllison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-12061302941455366442014-12-10T10:03:00.001-08:002014-12-10T10:11:52.122-08:00Well.. I am still having trouble figuring out my ACTUAL website. Trust me it's there.<br /><br />For now I will post here..because... well because there are just so many lovely products out right now that you MUST know about before they fly off the shelves. The holidays are here!<br /><br />The trends for winter and spring are light colors, less harsh lines in the form of eyeliner and lipliner. I have even seen some light teal in the forecast. Cannot wait for that! For reals.<br /><br />Recently I went to CVS to pick up some things for the house and grabbed a few items that I feel obligated to share with you. Because they are amazing and they are totally in line with the winter trends.<br /><br />First of all- The new HD lipgloss by Revlon. So many beautiful colors. If only I had 10 heads to wear every lipgloss I loved. Life would be so much better. Scary. But beautiful.<br /><br />I purchased Pedalite and Smoky Topaz. Pedalite is an orange-pink and Smoky Topaz is a brown-pink. This new HD lipgloss goes on smooth and is not sticky. It is super pretty on and has good wear time. They cost about $10 Dollars each. Great stocking stuffers or presents for friends!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F2JWBL2LdGs/VIiIu7etC7I/AAAAAAAAAco/dENW012JKZk/s1600/IMG_7380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F2JWBL2LdGs/VIiIu7etC7I/AAAAAAAAAco/dENW012JKZk/s1600/IMG_7380.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ep1_cbW7TkY/VIiI3rFLLiI/AAAAAAAAAcw/O9_2-N5IQW4/s1600/IMG_7382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ep1_cbW7TkY/VIiI3rFLLiI/AAAAAAAAAcw/O9_2-N5IQW4/s1600/IMG_7382.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pedalite on top Smoky Topaz on bottom&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Second- Milani Lipsticks. I have been seeing these babies everywhere in magazines! You can find them at CVS and Walgreens but check your local stores. Warning these smell and taste like watermelon candy. $5 Dollars each.<br /><br />I purchased Teddy Bare and Nude Creme because I felt they went along with the Revlon lipgloss. Nude Creme is a pinkish nude, while Teddy Bare is a purple/brown nude.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KWIR92fUzc0/VIiJGbG-m_I/AAAAAAAAAc8/XzAdQvaY87Y/s1600/IMG_7383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KWIR92fUzc0/VIiJGbG-m_I/AAAAAAAAAc8/XzAdQvaY87Y/s1600/IMG_7383.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_IM7a-NRX8/VIiJIdJheuI/AAAAAAAAAdE/dgSWq04aB28/s1600/IMG_7384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_IM7a-NRX8/VIiJIdJheuI/AAAAAAAAAdE/dgSWq04aB28/s1600/IMG_7384.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />Finally- Cover Girl has these new Jumbo lip gloss balm sticks out. They are great. Super easy to use. Cute colors blah blah blah.. grab one! The colors don't have names for some weird reason. I love the ease of this product and the color is super cute and feminine. $10 Dollars each.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2vg8YXPudkI/VIiJQwiUOtI/AAAAAAAAAdM/hvsm0SSv-vg/s1600/IMG_7385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2vg8YXPudkI/VIiJQwiUOtI/AAAAAAAAAdM/hvsm0SSv-vg/s1600/IMG_7385.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L75lc5Cj1jQ/VIiJSPDwNrI/AAAAAAAAAdU/yoVKjrhKgwk/s1600/IMG_7379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L75lc5Cj1jQ/VIiJSPDwNrI/AAAAAAAAAdU/yoVKjrhKgwk/s1600/IMG_7379.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />I have a whole video about all these products but for now the pictures and words will have to do! Hope this helps you navigate your way through the beauty isle this season. Grab some of the HD lipgloss for SURE before its gone!<br /><br />Your blushing beauty,<br /><br />Miss Ally JeanAllison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-27025894197875037362014-05-21T15:01:00.001-07:002014-05-21T15:02:42.605-07:00Natural products workshopHey ladies! In case you missed out I made extras!&nbsp;<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-L_jyV7_-niY/U30iOdPmcYI/AAAAAAAAAZU/QvZfFelDDGc/s640/blogger-image--1813321162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-L_jyV7_-niY/U30iOdPmcYI/AAAAAAAAAZU/QvZfFelDDGc/s640/blogger-image--1813321162.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Organic makeup brush spot cleaner $8</div><div><br></div><div>Ingredients: water, Dr Bronners<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">&nbsp;baby hemp soap, isopropyl alcohol, organic free and clear shampoo, vitamin e oil&nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Directions : After each brush use, take a clean face cloth, lay brush down on cloth and spray brush with 3-4 sprays of spot cleaner. Gently massage brush with cloth and wipe clean.&nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Spot cleaner prevents brushes from drying out, keeps them clean and bacteria free allowing for better makeup application and reduces chance of breakouts. Please deep clean your brushes once a week (I have another product that's great for this I will make a video of soon!)&nbsp;</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Mykj58SPztc/U30iP1l3i1I/AAAAAAAAAZk/9umrGVqVqos/s640/blogger-image-1139224214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Mykj58SPztc/U30iP1l3i1I/AAAAAAAAAZk/9umrGVqVqos/s640/blogger-image-1139224214.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Homemade hairspray $6</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Ingredients : sugar, vodka, water and essential oils (doTerra)</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I can create custom levels of 'hold' although I've found medium to be the best. Spray like any other hairspray. This homeade version does not leave a sticky residue on styled hair. Can be used on wet hair to create beachy waves as hair dries.&nbsp;</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SrNSnG37gS0/U30iPQDYpUI/AAAAAAAAAZc/CflEM5E2IfA/s640/blogger-image-1532183042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SrNSnG37gS0/U30iPQDYpUI/AAAAAAAAAZc/CflEM5E2IfA/s640/blogger-image-1532183042.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Essential oils hair wax $10</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Ingredients: organic Shea butter, organic bees wax, organic fractionated coconut oil, essential oils (doTerra)</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">This is the product everyone always asks me to borrow or make for them. Great for men and women. Take a small amount (half a pea) and rub between hands until completely melted and gently "brush" into hair with hands focusing on the ends. Will reduce frizz and create soft, controlled &nbsp;hair that lasts all day. Seriously a miracle product.&nbsp;</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Shipping is an extra $5 or you can come pick them up from my house.&nbsp;</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">PayPal me at&nbsp;</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">abrasivemike@gmail.com</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">And tell me what you would like in your order. Stay beautiful!&nbsp;</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Xo-Ally</font></div>Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7944938909884488978.post-24145748098192609082014-03-19T14:54:00.004-07:002014-03-23T08:55:27.731-07:00Party Options <strong><span style="font-family: inherit;">Orchid Party</span></strong><br /><br /><strong>Asymmetric&nbsp;Victory Rolls and </strong><br /><strong>Vintage Makeup Lesson</strong> <br /><br />Each guest brings her own makeup and I show you how to use the makeup you already have to create a custom vintage look including red lips, structured eyebrows, and cat eyeliner. <br /><br />Includes comb, clip, hair tie, and using my makeup to supplement anything you may be missing. <br /><br />Additional makeup available for purchase <br /><br />Price $15 Per Person <br /><br />******************************************************************<br /><br /><strong>Daisy Party</strong> <strong></strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Pin Curl Lesson and Organic Hairspray </strong><br /><strong>Quick Makeup Lesson</strong> <br /><br />Each guest will receive a set of pin curls and I will demonstrate how to create a glamorous look with pin curls- each girl will practice the pin curls on her own hair. Each guest makes a custom organic hairspray. Girls bring their own makeup from home and I give a short lesson on how to use your makeup to create a quick, every day vintage inspired look. <br /><br />Includes comb, pins, hair tie, hairspray, and using my makeup to supplement anything you may be missing. <br /><br />Additional makeup available for purchase <br /><br />Price $15 per person <br /><br /><br />******************************************************************<br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Rose Party</strong></span> <br /><br /><strong>Center Victory Rolls, Pink Lips, Dramatic Eyeliner. </strong><br /><strong>Create and take home an organic makeup setting spray.</strong><br /><br />Each guest brings her own makeup and I demonstrate how to use the makeup you already have to create a custom vintage look including pink lips, and dramatic eyeliner. Each guest makes and takes home&nbsp;a custom makeup setting spray with essential oils. <br /><br />Includes comb, organic makeup setting spray with essential oils, and using my makeup to supplement anything you may be missing <br /><br />Additional makeup available for purchase <br /><br />Price $20 Per Person <br /><br /><br />******************************************************************<br /><br /><strong>Green Party </strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Organic Refreshing Spray (can be used as makeup setting spray)</strong><br /><strong>Coconut and/or Jojoba oil Moisturizer </strong><br /><strong>Organic Cleaning Spray </strong><br /><strong>Green Smoothie</strong> <br /><br /><br />Each guest will make and take home custom home-made products while learning the importance of creating skincare and cleaning products at home. The class will end with a delicious green smoothie made with fruit and vegetables, as well as essential oils. <br /><br />Includes refreshing spray, coconut or jojoba oil, cleaning spray, and smoothie sample. <br /><br /><br />Price $25 Per Person <br /><br /><br />******************************************************************<br /><br />Parties can be at my house or yours! Great idea for a bridal shower, before girls night out or just for fun!&nbsp;Get 4-8 Friends together and have a fun girls day! <br /><br />Custom options available email me fore more info. <br /><br />To book a party email me at:<br /><br /><a href="mailto:Missallyjean@gmail.com">Missallyjean</a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"><a href="mailto:Missallyjean@gmail.com">@gmail.com</a> </a><br /><br /><br />Allison Armashttps://plus.google.com/117851693172825876605noreply@blogger.com0